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Hello, Higher Self: An Outsider's Guide to Loving Yourself in a Tough World
For fans of Yung Pueblo and Nicole LePera, Hello Higher Self is an inclusive guide to radical self-love from beloved self-help content creator and multi-media artist Bunny Michael
Insecurities, inadequacies, self-doubt; we all have them, and never more so than in this age of media saturation and technical voyeurism. Enter Bunny Michael, an interdisciplinary artist whose work picks up where Alex Elle, Brené Brown, and Julia Cameron leave off.
Bunny knows what it is firsthand to be an from trying to find their footing in an art world dictated by social media followers, to coming to terms with their queer identity, to dealing with the societal traumas they’ve inherited as a person of color in a society that privileges whiteness. It was at a real low point that Bunny first got in touch with their higher self—and ever since has been helping their followers do the same through their art and inspiring Instagram presence.
Building from Bunny’s viral memes, Hello Higher Self Is a self-care manifesto, calling on readers to radically shift their perspectives from the Learned Hierarchal Beliefs (LHBs) we’ve all internalized to the self-acceptance we were born into, aka our Higher Selves. This book shines a light into eighteen areas of life where LHBs often lurk— from creativity, to work, to relationships, to race, to sexual pleasure. Bunny’s mix of meditative advice, written exercises, and personal examples make for a jaw-dropping read.
Insecurities, inadequacies, self-doubt; we all have them, and never more so than in this age of media saturation and technical voyeurism. Enter Bunny Michael, an interdisciplinary artist whose work picks up where Alex Elle, Brené Brown, and Julia Cameron leave off.
Bunny knows what it is firsthand to be an from trying to find their footing in an art world dictated by social media followers, to coming to terms with their queer identity, to dealing with the societal traumas they’ve inherited as a person of color in a society that privileges whiteness. It was at a real low point that Bunny first got in touch with their higher self—and ever since has been helping their followers do the same through their art and inspiring Instagram presence.
Building from Bunny’s viral memes, Hello Higher Self Is a self-care manifesto, calling on readers to radically shift their perspectives from the Learned Hierarchal Beliefs (LHBs) we’ve all internalized to the self-acceptance we were born into, aka our Higher Selves. This book shines a light into eighteen areas of life where LHBs often lurk— from creativity, to work, to relationships, to race, to sexual pleasure. Bunny’s mix of meditative advice, written exercises, and personal examples make for a jaw-dropping read.
336 pages, Hardcover
Published June 4, 2024
94 people are currently reading
1754 people want to read
About the author
Bunny Michael
7 books24 followersBunny Michael is a multi-disciplinary queer Mexican/Samoan artist and influencer who has inspired an audience of 230k Instagram followers to discover their Higher Self. What began as a viral meme series on Instagram has now expanded to a multi-platform experience. Bunny’s new podcast, XO Higher Self, charted in the top 100 Apple Podcasts in Self Improvement, and they are currently producing, writing and starring in an upcoming web series, What Would Higher Self Do? Bunny has been a featured guest on popular podcasts including The Mind Rolling Podcast (part of Ram Dass’ Be Here Now Network) and The Spiritually Sassy Show (hosted by Sah D’Simone). Bunny was also chosen by Instagram to take part in their Creators Program and partnered with the social media platform’s Anti Bullying Guide, Mental Health Awareness Month Campaign, and Voting Registration Initiative. In 2018 Bunny landed a role on HBO’s hit show High Maintenance, and was the host of Broadly Hotline, a digital series on Vice where Bunny interviewed celebrities such as Joey King and Queer Eye’s Karamo Brown on self-care and mental health. Bunny’s work has also been featured in The New York Times, Huffpo, Paper Magazine, Dazed & Confused, and ID.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 2, 2025
While half of this did not apply to me, I found it eye-opening and truly amazing. The rest that did apply to be was pretty profound. I am trying to put some of this into practice to always step into everything I'm doing as my higher self and to work on healing my inner self through the process. I found this book interesting and thought-provoking! Thank you Bunny for sharing this with us.
October 15, 2025
The information provided in the book was too basic, while this topic requires a much more in-depth explanation.
January 29, 2025
★★★★☆
(J'ai vraiment aimé)
Je me suis donné le défi de lire au moins un livre de développement personnel cette année et c'est pourquoi j'ai choisi celui-ci.
J'ai beaucoup aimé le contenu ; chaque chapitre aborde en profondeur un aspect différent de la vie et termine avec des affirmations et des idées de questions à se poser pour faire du journaling.
💓
(J'ai vraiment aimé)
Je me suis donné le défi de lire au moins un livre de développement personnel cette année et c'est pourquoi j'ai choisi celui-ci.
J'ai beaucoup aimé le contenu ; chaque chapitre aborde en profondeur un aspect différent de la vie et termine avec des affirmations et des idées de questions à se poser pour faire du journaling.
💓
March 16, 2025
I went into Hello, Higher Self hoping for insight, depth, or at the very least, something worth my time. What I got instead felt like an unstructured stream of thoughts—more like someone waking up one day and deciding, Hey, I should write a book! without any clear purpose.
There’s no depth here. It barely scratches the surface of self-growth but never goes anywhere meaningful. The title is misleading because it implies something transformative, but instead, it’s just a collection of shallow musings that never quite connect. It’s like the author is trying to be profound but only manages to state the obvious in a way that feels repetitive and uninspired.
I can see this appealing to dedicated fans, but for anyone looking for real guidance, wisdom, or even just an engaging read, this book is a waste of time and money. Boring, directionless, and ultimately pointless.
There’s no depth here. It barely scratches the surface of self-growth but never goes anywhere meaningful. The title is misleading because it implies something transformative, but instead, it’s just a collection of shallow musings that never quite connect. It’s like the author is trying to be profound but only manages to state the obvious in a way that feels repetitive and uninspired.
I can see this appealing to dedicated fans, but for anyone looking for real guidance, wisdom, or even just an engaging read, this book is a waste of time and money. Boring, directionless, and ultimately pointless.
August 11, 2024
If you came here from Bunny’s IG, you’ll love her book. As a recovering perfectionist and someone who’s had the “I’m not enough” story her entire life, this book is a soothing balm.
September 3, 2024
If you’re a fan of the higher self podcast, you’ll love this book. It feels good to not be alone in my insecurities and it helps to unpack where those insecurities stem from. I appreciate Bunny’s ability to look at everyone with compassion and understanding that everyone is on a different healing journey. There is even compassion for people who aren’t on a healing journey at all. I’m very glad I bought this because I will definitely be rereading it! It just felt like a big warm hug.
July 7, 2024
Grounded, insightful and balanced.
A strong, straightforward addition to the mental health oeuvre, and a welcome and shining light post on life’s journey. I enjoyed the gentle and generous, compassionate tone of the author along with the insight into their life, along with the quotations, drawings, affirmations and journal prompts. Topics covered include Social Media, Work, Family, Relationships, Dating, Race, Politics, Body Image, Sex, Mental Health and Spirituality.
While it doesn’t go into a lot of depth and detail, Hello, Higher Self: An Outsider’s Guide to Loving Yourself is a quick, short, engaging introduction into caring for your higher self.
Thank you to NetGalley and Publishers for access to a digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
A strong, straightforward addition to the mental health oeuvre, and a welcome and shining light post on life’s journey. I enjoyed the gentle and generous, compassionate tone of the author along with the insight into their life, along with the quotations, drawings, affirmations and journal prompts. Topics covered include Social Media, Work, Family, Relationships, Dating, Race, Politics, Body Image, Sex, Mental Health and Spirituality.
While it doesn’t go into a lot of depth and detail, Hello, Higher Self: An Outsider’s Guide to Loving Yourself is a quick, short, engaging introduction into caring for your higher self.
Thank you to NetGalley and Publishers for access to a digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
June 16, 2024
I’m familiar with the author’s memes and philosophy via instagram so I was excited to see they were writing a book.
If you already buy into their philosophy and messaging, then this book is comforting, cathartic and helpful to put you on a path to self actualization.
my higher self recognizes that this book won’t resonate with everyone, but if you’re open to it, bunny’s message is uplifting & full of love :)
If you already buy into their philosophy and messaging, then this book is comforting, cathartic and helpful to put you on a path to self actualization.
my higher self recognizes that this book won’t resonate with everyone, but if you’re open to it, bunny’s message is uplifting & full of love :)
August 27, 2025
Just finished Bunny Michael's Hello, Higher Self: An Outsider's Guide to Loving Yourself in a Tough World.
It's a bit difficult to 'rate' this book given it is part self-love guide and part memoir. 'Hello, Higher Self' introduces us to the author's concept of a higher self within ourselves, who loves and cares for us (after reading all the way to the end, I can kind of see some roots pointing towards Christianity and spiritual/religious teachings). Hello, Higher Self focuses on many elements of our lives, and reminds us that we're all on this same journey called life. It also reminds us that we're all at different stages of healing, and hurt people hurt others.
The memoir aspect of this book introduces us to the author themself, a Mexican Samoan artist and influencer and their challenging childhood and adult life. It's pretty candid and goes so far as to point out the author's own problematic behaviours when they were younger, and how they learned from their actions and became a more healed and caring person.
I enjoyed the little summaries, soundbites and journalling questions. This is definitely a meaningful and impactful work that provides guidance on doing our inner work and healing of our past wounds.
I felt like this book felt like a hug in book form, and it's perfect for those who are hard on themselves or find the world a tough, harsh place. As a HSP, I could totally relate to the author's own life story, and how they were often belittled for their sensitivity and being a unique, creative soul.
The only parts I felt were a little lacking was that this book was written more with an American audience in mind, rather than a global one. On top of that, as an Asian reader, I felt a bit awkward reading about how Asian people were described, somehow to me it felt a little othering. To me, the book also goes deep into idolising a certain ethnicity (as an illustration of a Learned Hierarchal Belief (LHB)), which was tricky and a little painful to read. But definitely this concept of LHBs coined by the author was very enlightening and I'm glad that there's a term for this. LHBs refers to beliefs that we've culturally and socially been conditioned to subscribe to, it's the lens in which we judge and evaluate ourselves and others, and through this hierarchical system, people are deemed more or less worthy. This is reinforced through society's expectations. What can we do? The first step is to recognise that these deeply ingrained LHBs exist, and next is to challenge these flawed belief systems. There is innate value in each of us because we are all human.
At times, I did think the book felt a little too focused and too in depth into the author's life, some of it, I felt I didn't need to know (maybe it challenged my own beliefs about the author being 'perfect'). I felt like if the book provided more guidance rather than life anecdotes, it might be even more meaningful to readers. Another thing I struggled a little with was how the writing felt like a book compilation of Instagram captions, and how the overall voice of the book kind of gives off this slightly superior vibe like the author is 'far more enlightened/wise/knowledgeable' than the reader. I think if future books gave more credit to readers' intellect, the book would be even more accessible and feel less distant. I also wonder whether this book and future books would be accessible and inclusive towards people of different generations. I felt like the book was more geared towards millennials and those around this age group. Nevertheless, this is definitely a book that deserves a second read or more, and I would recommend this for those wanting to engage in inner work and having a healthier relationship with themselves and others.
It's a bit difficult to 'rate' this book given it is part self-love guide and part memoir. 'Hello, Higher Self' introduces us to the author's concept of a higher self within ourselves, who loves and cares for us (after reading all the way to the end, I can kind of see some roots pointing towards Christianity and spiritual/religious teachings). Hello, Higher Self focuses on many elements of our lives, and reminds us that we're all on this same journey called life. It also reminds us that we're all at different stages of healing, and hurt people hurt others.
The memoir aspect of this book introduces us to the author themself, a Mexican Samoan artist and influencer and their challenging childhood and adult life. It's pretty candid and goes so far as to point out the author's own problematic behaviours when they were younger, and how they learned from their actions and became a more healed and caring person.
I enjoyed the little summaries, soundbites and journalling questions. This is definitely a meaningful and impactful work that provides guidance on doing our inner work and healing of our past wounds.
I felt like this book felt like a hug in book form, and it's perfect for those who are hard on themselves or find the world a tough, harsh place. As a HSP, I could totally relate to the author's own life story, and how they were often belittled for their sensitivity and being a unique, creative soul.
The only parts I felt were a little lacking was that this book was written more with an American audience in mind, rather than a global one. On top of that, as an Asian reader, I felt a bit awkward reading about how Asian people were described, somehow to me it felt a little othering. To me, the book also goes deep into idolising a certain ethnicity (as an illustration of a Learned Hierarchal Belief (LHB)), which was tricky and a little painful to read. But definitely this concept of LHBs coined by the author was very enlightening and I'm glad that there's a term for this. LHBs refers to beliefs that we've culturally and socially been conditioned to subscribe to, it's the lens in which we judge and evaluate ourselves and others, and through this hierarchical system, people are deemed more or less worthy. This is reinforced through society's expectations. What can we do? The first step is to recognise that these deeply ingrained LHBs exist, and next is to challenge these flawed belief systems. There is innate value in each of us because we are all human.
At times, I did think the book felt a little too focused and too in depth into the author's life, some of it, I felt I didn't need to know (maybe it challenged my own beliefs about the author being 'perfect'). I felt like if the book provided more guidance rather than life anecdotes, it might be even more meaningful to readers. Another thing I struggled a little with was how the writing felt like a book compilation of Instagram captions, and how the overall voice of the book kind of gives off this slightly superior vibe like the author is 'far more enlightened/wise/knowledgeable' than the reader. I think if future books gave more credit to readers' intellect, the book would be even more accessible and feel less distant. I also wonder whether this book and future books would be accessible and inclusive towards people of different generations. I felt like the book was more geared towards millennials and those around this age group. Nevertheless, this is definitely a book that deserves a second read or more, and I would recommend this for those wanting to engage in inner work and having a healthier relationship with themselves and others.
November 29, 2024
Bunny Michael is a fun and inspirational writer, and their voice here is definitely one you can trust, someone you could sit down with and have a long chat with over coffee and scones. I found the book to be something that I could implement into my life immediately, including asking myself “what would my Higher Self say about this?” after a disagreement with my husband. One thing to note, however (and it’s not even necessarily a bad thing, depending on your perspective) but much of what Bunny writes about isn’t all that new. Their central thesis here, regarding one’s higher self, is really just the same concept as the dialect from DBT. There are other examples but I don’t want to belabor the point because in spite of this, the book is inspirational and helpful, breaking down some difficult concepts into a more user-friendly text.
June 15, 2024
CW: homophobia, racism, sexism, trauma, stigma, institutionalizations, repression, oppression, colonialism, appropriation, fatphobia
An artist and social media activist talks about mental health and wellness through reflections on their higher self. This is the subject of their content online, which I’m not familiar with. It was somewhat uplifting and intersectional in its approach, but was not delivered from a mental health expert. Lived experience as a non binary queer Mexican Samoan informed their approach. Thoughtful with journal and reflection. Wide range of topics and moved quickly. Lots on family issues.
An artist and social media activist talks about mental health and wellness through reflections on their higher self. This is the subject of their content online, which I’m not familiar with. It was somewhat uplifting and intersectional in its approach, but was not delivered from a mental health expert. Lived experience as a non binary queer Mexican Samoan informed their approach. Thoughtful with journal and reflection. Wide range of topics and moved quickly. Lots on family issues.
February 1, 2025
so so good! it helped me to think about many areas in my life and recognize where i am now instead of focusing solely in the idea that i've got to do more and be more. understanding where we are and seeing that it comes from a long way of growth is essential so we can live a life that feels more fulfilling and focusing on the present as a result of everything we do, think and choose for ourselves every day.
February 3, 2025
Beautiful book to put you on the right path of self-discovery without the clinical feel that some novels like this can give off. Bunny has a very soothing approach to her writing! I never really sat with the idea of learnt hierarchal beliefs impacting so many aspects of life.
I took my time digesting this one, there is a number of journal prompts and exercises that I highly recommend doing! Very comforting and cathartic - might not be for everyone ✨
I took my time digesting this one, there is a number of journal prompts and exercises that I highly recommend doing! Very comforting and cathartic - might not be for everyone ✨
September 23, 2024
I really enjoyed this "self development book." It's gentle, effectively reinforces Bunny's themes of connecting with your higher self and recognizing learned hierarchical beliefs, and points out how both those ideas relate to every aspect of your life. I'm excited to come back to this book for the journal prompts at the end of each chapter.
August 5, 2025
This book is a beautiful reminder on us being already complete, enough and worthy. Readings like this help us to focus more on ultimate purposes rather than giving our attention to little bad moments of our journey. Peace and love ☮️
November 19, 2024
I love that I can pick it up at anytime and read a chapter that resonates in any situation. Always feels like a warm hug while reading
December 26, 2024
good one but a bit boring at the end, I found the book a bit repetitive as well
January 7, 2025
I just didn’t really connect with this book. I love all the topics and Bunny is obviously an amazing human being, it just didn’t resonate with me in my life right now. Would still recommend though!
January 10, 2025
Lots of great points of view and tips
Best line was To really know someone is to know their heart to know yourself is to connet to your heart
Best line was To really know someone is to know their heart to know yourself is to connet to your heart
January 31, 2025
The perfect book to helping me navigate my recent breakup and understanding I am enough.
I loved the journal prompts and affirmations.
I loved the journal prompts and affirmations.
April 4, 2025
Give a whole new perspective on finding balance in loving yourself and having patience and compassion for others. Loving my new higher self after this book
April 9, 2025
i actually did not finish this, loveee bunny michael & while this didn’t rock my world it’s great entry-level psych
Read
April 9, 2025DNF 50%
July 4, 2025
Συμπαθές ανάγνωσμα! Μπορείς να αντλήσεις χρήσιμες πληροφορίες και εφαρμόσιμες συμβουλές!
August 3, 2025
3.5 stars rounded down
August 5, 2025
Such a great read and reminder of being our true authentic selves. Loved the journal prompts in the book !
September 20, 2025
This book was such a warm hug. It was exactly what I needed to read at this moment in my life and is full of kindness, love, and gentle reminders.
October 7, 2025
ja en nee
January 12, 2025
Inclusive writing about self love from the perspective of someone who identifies with a few different marginalised communities. Really enjoyed listening on audiobook!
March 7, 2025
Great book. A great guide on how to live a live with your higher self in mind. A guide that helps you to make decisions that will lead you to how you want your further self to be. This was an easy read and impactful with the examples the author provided in regard to their personal life.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews